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Australia have called up uncapped Tasmania batsman Alex Doolan to their 14-man squad for the fifth Ashes Test at the SCG as they aim to complete the series whitewash.

Doolan, 28, finished last season as the fourth highest run-scorer in the Sheffield Shield and hit an unbeaten 161 for Australia A against the touring South Africans last summer.

He finds a place in the squad because of a fitness concern surrounding all-rounder Shane Watson. Watson was restricted in his bowling duties by groin soreness during the fourth Test at the MCG and is unlikely to play unless he can play a full part with the ball. Another man who is a doubt for the SCG due to injury is fast-bowler Ryan Harris. Four consecutive Test matches appear to have proved too much for his troublesome knee and he is expected to be replaced by James Faulkner or Nathan Coulter-Nile. Doug Bollinger, who was part of the squad for the fourth Test has been released to play for his Big Bash League franchise.

Head of selection John Inverarity said of the changes: “With some players still being assessed by our medical team after four demanding Tests, we have decided to add Alex to ensure we have sufficient cover in our batting line-up should it be required. Alex is a talented player who came under strong consideration for selection ahead of the Ashes series after a string of solid performances in four day cricket for Tasmania at the start of this season, but also after an excellent finish to last season and we feel those performances warrant his inclusion in the squad of 14 for Sydney.

“Doug, who has been bowling impressively this season, has been released to play Big Bash League as the NSP feels there is sufficient cover with James Faulkner and Nathan Coulter-Nile also in the squad.”